What's On in Norwich – Events This Week & Things To Do

What kinds of events happen in Norwich during the week?

Norwich has regular cultural and public events across its central neighbourhoods. Food and drink gatherings take place at landmarks such as Norwich Market, a 900-year-old open-air market with stalls selling local produce, crafts, and street food. St Peter Mancroft Church hosts seasonal exhibitions and community talks in its historic nave. The Forum serves as a cultural hub for events including public readings, music recitals, and civic assemblies. Jarrolds Department Store features art displays and pop-up craft markets throughout the year. Theatre performances occur at venues like Norwich Arts Centre and the Theatre Royal, which presents touring shows across drama, comedy, and dance genres.

Markets run regularly on St Peter Mancroft and The Lanes throughout the week, often tied to seasonal events such as Heritage Open Days or Christmas Fayre preparations. Exhibitions are held within institutions including Norwich Castle Museum, home to archaeological finds from Norfolk, ceramics, silverware, and natural history collections. Recurring festivals like the Norfolk and Norwich Festival in May provide a sustained programme of public performances across city venues.

Where do most events take place?

Most weekly activities centre on St Peter Mancroft, The Market, and old Norwich, key points within the core civic district. Venues include historic buildings such as Norwich Guildhall (built 1407), Royal Arcade (Art Nouveau design by George Skipper in 1899), and Jarrolds Department Store. These spaces support regular markets, art exhibitions, public lectures, and performances.

The Forum hosts events including the Norfolk and Norwich Millennium Library’s reading groups and local author talks. Castle Gardens provides accessible green space for family-friendly activities such as outdoor film screenings during summer months. The Theatre Royal draws large audiences with its year-round season of touring productions. Events also occur in Bethel Street and St Peters Street, which host weekend markets and live music nights.

Are there family-friendly things to do?

Yes, families can attend events at venues including Norwich Castle Museum, where children engage with archaeology displays and hands-on exhibits, and Castle Gardens, used for seasonal fairs and outdoor play. The Norfolk and Norwich Festival includes dedicated workshops for young audiences, while Cinema City offers ‘The Kids’ Club’ screenings on weekends.

Events such as Mother’s Day Weekend at ROARR! include family tickets with special promotions. Seasonal activities like the Eaton Park miniature railway run Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays from April to September. Heritage Open Days feature guided tours of historic buildings suitable for children, including access points into Norwich Cathedral's crypts or church towers.

What nightlife and music events happen in Norwich?

Nightlife is active across venues such as Voodoo Daddy’s, known for intimate live gigs featuring local bands; the Lamb Inn hosts sports screenings during major fixtures like the 6 Nations Final. The Theatre Royal stages comedy shows, theatrical performances, and musical acts, such as Josh Baulf: Lovely Stuff or Dan Tiernan: All In.

Music events often appear on Saturday evenings at venues including Norwich Arts Centre and local pubs. These include genre-specific nights in small spaces such as the 33rd Norwich Scout Group’s music sessions. The winter theatre season includes late-night performances during festival periods, with some shows lasting until midnight.

How can I find this week's events?

Use platform filters for ‘This Week’ or ‘this weekend.’ Browse by category, Culture & Arts, Food & Drink, Family & Kids, Nightlife & Music, Shopping & Markets, and search specific venues like Norwich Market, Jarrolds, The Forum, Theatre Royal, and Castle Gardens. Events are listed under city centre neighbourhoods including St Peters Street and old Norwich to help locate activities with ease.